Addictions, Mental Health, and Social Work Assistant

Patricia Hampshire, DHS, LISW-S, HS-BCP, Chair
Phone: (419) 995-8852
Email: hampshire.p@rhodesstate.edu
Office: TL 102L

The Addictions, Mental Health, and Social Work Assistant degree program prepares students with the knowledge and skills to support people with diverse challenges and needs.  They are employed in settings such as community service centers, job and family services, mental health agencies, addictions centers, correctional facilities, domestic violence shelters, recovery houses, homeless shelters, and so many more.  

Graduates may be eligible for registration as a Social Work Assistant (SWA) through the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board, and the Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) through the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board.  For students interested in a bachelor’s degree, this degree program is a great start by obtaining employable skills, while also having transfer opportunities into the Bachelor’s of Social Work or Addiction Studies programs.  

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, the student will be able to:

  1. Explain the scope and main features of the field, such as its development, theories, practices, and interactions of human systems.
  2. Demonstrate competency in core helping skills such as listening, writing, speaking, observation, interviewing, intake assessment, social assessment, intervention methods, record-keeping, goal planning, case management, group facilitation, crisis intervention, referrals, advocacy, cultural competence, orientation, education and prevention services.
  3. Behave professionally, ethically and legally in their responsibilities to consumers, colleagues, practice settings, employers, society, to self, and to the profession.
  4. Assess awareness of their own strengths, limitations, attitudes, values, personalities, interpersonal/ reaction styles and how these may affect their professional practice.
  5. Perform entry-level skills competently in a professional setting by having participated in experiential training and reflection (learning by doing/experience).

Grading Policy

Academic standards are found under Grading and Credit System of the Student Handbook section of this catalog. Addictions, Mental Health, and Social Work Assistant students must attain a “C” grade in each Human Service (HUM) course. Any Human Service (HUM) course in which a grade below a “C” is received must be repeated.

Curriculum Options

Students are encouraged to review their individual needs with the department chairperson when considering full-time and part-time alternatives. Additionally, students should review educational needs in conjunction with current work experiences.

Articulations (2+2 Option)

Students interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree should speak to a an Addictions, Mental Health, and Social Work Assistant Faculty Advisor early in their Rhodes State College career.

Technical Standards
See here for details.

Tech Prep Partner
See here for details.